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News Reports

Current Operations

• Interagency Land Agreement Strengthens Military Border Mission DoD News 16 Apr 2025 -- On April 11, 2025, a national security presidential memorandum directed the Defense Department to accept jurisdiction of certain federal lands along the southern border from other agencies.
• US intensifies bombing Yemen amid reports of planned ground invasion Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- The United States has carried out a fresh wave of airstrikes across multiple regions in Yemen, targeting various sites and infrastructure in the Arab country in the latest acts of aggression.
• Iran condemns continued U.S. attacks on Yemen IRNA 16 Apr 2025 -- Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei has strongly condemned the continued U.S. airstrikes on various areas in Yemen, which have resulted in death and injury of civilians while causing significant destruction to homes and infrastructure.
• US Begins Withdrawing Troops From Key Base Near Syria's Largest Gas Field Sputnik 16 Apr 2025 -- The United States has begun withdrawing military personnel from a base located near Syria's largest gas field, Koniko, in the eastern province of Deir ez-Zor, the Al-Araby Al-Jadeed (New Arab) newspaper reported on Wednesday.

Defense Policy / Programs

• Pentagon officials placed on leave over 'unauthorized' leaks on Yemen Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- The Pentagon has placed two high-ranking officials on administrative leave amid an ongoing investigation into "unauthorized" leaks related to a confidential group chat discussing military aggression against Yemen.
• Pentagon Official Placed on Administrative Leave Amid Leak Investigation Sputnik 16 Apr 2025 -- Darin Selnick, the Pentagon's deputy chief of staff, has been placed under administrative leave as part of an investigation into potential information leaks, a European newspaper reported on Wednesday, citing defense officials.
• Readout of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's Bilateral Meeting With El Salvador's Minister of Defense H.E. René Merino Monroy DoD 16 Apr 2025
• Hegseth Welcomes Salvadoran Counterpart, Praises Relationship Between Countries DoD News 16 Apr 2025 -- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth welcomed Salvadoran Defense Minister René Francis Merino Monroy, to the Pentagon today as part of a bilateral engagement in which the secretary praised the bond shared between the two countries.
• Secretary of the Army tours Powidz APS-2 worksite in Poland on first visit to Europe Army News 16 Apr 2025 -- The Hon. Dan Driscoll, 26th Secretary of the Army, conducted a site visit and key leader engagement at the Powidz Army Prepositioned Stocks-2 worksite in Poland on April 11, 2025, to get a firsthand look and gain a better understanding of the Army's newest and most modern APS worksite.
• U.S. Navy, ROK Navy Complete Combined Mine Warfare Exercise US Navy 16 Apr 2025 -- The U.S. Navy and the Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) concluded Korean Spring Exercise, April 16, 2025.
• Blue Ridge Conducts Port Call in Cairns, Australia US Navy 16 Apr 2025 -- U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) arrived in Cairns, Australia for a routine port visit April 16, 2025. This is Blue Ridge's first visit to the city since 2013.
• Readout of Acting Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jim Kilby Meeting with Chief of Staff of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Adm. Akira Saito and Republic of Korea (ROK) Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Yang Yong-mo US Navy Press Release 16 Apr 2025
• Keel Laid for Future USNS Solomon Atkinson US Navy Press Release 16 Apr 2025 -- The keel for the future USNS Solomon Atkinson (T-ATS 12), a Navajo-class towing, salvage, and rescue ship, was laid during a ceremony on April 16, at Austal USA.
• Space Force, USSPACECOM leaders discuss their distinct roles in the joint force United States Space Force 16 Apr 2025 -- To conclude the 40th Space Symposium, Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force John Bentivegna and Chief Master Sgt. Jacob Simmons, command senior enlisted leader for U.S. Space Command, participated in a fireside chat in Colorado Springs, Colorado, April 10.
• Space Chiefs forum reinforces international partnerships United States Space Force 16 Apr 2025 -- Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman and Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force John Bentivegna hosted military space leaders from 18 other countries at the annual Space Chiefs Forum on April 10. The event is part of ongoing Space Force efforts to foster multinational collaboration that builds enduring operational advantages.
• Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum Commanders' Conference: Planning for The Future in Brunssum's Area of Responsibility NATO JFC Brunssum 16 Apr 2025 -- On 15th and 16th April, Headquarters Joint Force Command Brunssum (JFCBS) hosted the conference of the Commanders of adjacent, subordinate, and national Commands in JFC Brunssum's Area of Responsibility.
• Ukraine Will Keep Ramping Up Arms Production to Ensure Its Own Security - Volodymyr Zelenskyy President of Ukraine 16 Apr 2025
• Planning For A Ukraine Cease-Fire, Turkey Hosts Talks On Black Sea Security RFE/RL 16 Apr 2025 -- Military leaders from several nations are quietly holding under-the-radar talks at the headquarters of the Turkish Navy in Ankara this week, focusing on Black Sea security in the event of a cease-fire between Russia and Ukraine.
• Regular Press Briefing of the Ministry of National Defense on April 16, 2025 PRC MND 16 Apr 2025
• China, Egypt to hold first air force joint drill, eye cooperation boost Global Times 16 Apr 2025 -- The Chinese and Egyptian militaries will soon hold their first joint drill in a move to boost cooperation, the Chinese Defense Ministry announced on Wednesday. With the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force sending forces to Egypt, a Chinese expert said the exercise could pave the way for potential aviation equipment cooperation.
• MND: wanton use of force will not make America great again Global Times 16 Apr 2025 -- Question: It's reported that the US defense budget for fiscal year 2026 might reach $1 trillion for the first time and it would be used to enhance lethality and readiness. May I have your comments on this?
• Wanton use of force will not make America great again: Defense Spokesperson PRC MND 16 Apr 2025 -- The sky-high defense budget exposed once again the bellicose nature of the US and its belief in "might makes right", said a Chinese defense ministry spokesperson on Wednesday.
• Smearing China cannot help remove US's label as Empire of Hacking: Defense Spokesperson PRC MND 16 Apr 2025 -- "We require the US side to stop acting like a thief crying 'stop thief', refrain from launching cyber attacks against other countries including China, and restore a clean and secure cyberspace with responsible words and actions," said Chinese Defense Spokesperson Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang at a press briefing on Wednesday.
• The Ministry of National Defense released a press statement explaining the "Outbreak of numerous retirement applications from military officers in the R.O.C. armed forces." ROC MND 16 Apr 2025
• INDIA- UZBEKISTAN JOINT MILITARY EXERCISE DUSTLIK-VI COMMENCES AT FOREIGN TRAINING NODE, AUNDH India PIB 16 Apr 2025 -- The 6th edition of India- Uzbekistan Joint Military Exercise DUSTLIK-VI commenced today, at Foreign Training Node, Aundh (Pune)
• Iran calls for bolstering defense and military cooperation with Tajikistan IRNA 16 Apr 2025 -- The chairman of the Chiefs of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, in a meeting with Tajikistan's Defense Minister Lieutenant General Emomali Sobirzoda, has expressed Iran's readiness to increase cooperation with Tajikistan in the defense and military fields.
• Iran, Tajikistan discuss defense partnership, counter-terrorism cooperation Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Bagheri has hosted Tajikistan's Defense Minister Lieutenant General Emomali Sobirzoda to discuss bilateral cooperation in the defense.
• Army, IRGC are strong fortress to shield Iran from external threats, says top commander IRNA 16 Apr 2025 -- Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Chief Commander Major General Hossein Salami has described the Iranian Army and IRGC as a strong fortress to defend the country.
• Japanese warships will be first to visit a Cambodian port upgraded by China Radio Free Asia 16 Apr 2025 -- Japan said two of its minesweepers will visit a naval port in Cambodia this weekend in the first foreign navy visit since a Chinese-funded upgrade was completed.
• Finland's eastern border to remain closed until further notice Finnish Government 16 Apr 2025 -- The Government has renewed its decision on the closure of border crossing points on the eastern border.
• Ministerial Committee on European Union Affairs discusses financing to reinforce European defence Finnish Government 16 Apr 2025 -- In its meeting on Wednesday 16 April, the Ministerial Committee on European Union Affairs discussed the proposal for a financial instrument to strengthen European defence and the proposal on taking Member States' defence expenditure into account within the Stability and Growth Pact.
• Lithuania and Latvia conclude contract to research and develop Finnish landing craft Finnish MoD 16 Apr 2025 -- The Finnish boat manufacturer Marine Alutech Oy Ab has concluded a contract with the Lithuanian and Latvian ministries of defence for a procurement programme to research and develop fast multirole attack craft.
• A look at the Defence news 7 - 13 April Netherlands Ministry of Defence 16 Apr 2025
• US approves potential sale of Stinger Block I Missiles to Morocco worth $825 million Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- The US State Department has authorized the potential sale of FIM-92K Stinger Block I Missiles and related equipment to Morocco, in a move marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral military relations.
• Tolentino urges public vigilance vs. submersible drones Philippine News Agency 16 Apr 2025 -- Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino on Wednesday urged the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious maritime activities, following the Armed Forces of the Philippines' (AFP) confirmation that recovered submersible drones pose a national security concern.
• Submersible drones possibly launched by surface ships - Navy spox Philippine News Agency 16 Apr 2025 -- The submersible drones that have been found in the country's waters from 2022 to 2024 could have been dropped by surface ships, a ranking Philippine Navy (PN) official said Tuesday.
• Cope Thunder drills hone air combat capabilities of PH, US pilots Philippine News Agency 16 Apr 2025 -- The ongoing Cope Thunder 25-1 air drills between Philippine and US Air Forces units are providing fighter jet pilots from both nations a chance to hone their air combat and defensive capabilities, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) said Wednesday.
• Protecting and Championing Free Speech at the State Department US Dept. of State 16 Apr 2025 -- "It is the responsibility of every government official to continuously work to preserve and protect the freedom for Americans to exercise their free speech. That is why today I am announcing the closure of the State Department's Counter Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (R/FIMI), formerly known as the Global Engagement Center (GEC)."
• Secretary Rubio's Meeting with Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono US Dept. of State 16 Apr 2025
• Deputy Secretary Landau's Call with Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Papadopoulou US Dept. of State 16 Apr 2025
• Secretary of State Marco Rubio with Mike Benz US Dept. of State 16 Apr 2025
• Secretary Rubio's Call with Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa US Dept. of State 16 Apr 2025
• The U.S. Congressional Staff underline the strong and unwavering cooperation between Latvia and the U.S. Latvia MFA 16 Apr 2025 -- From 15 to 18 April 2025, a United States Congressional Staff delegation is visiting Latvia.

Defense Industry

• Contracts For April 16, 2025

Other Conflicts

Ukraine Conflict News


• 16 April 2025 - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General United Nations 16 Apr 2025

Operation Iron Swords / Operation Al-Aqsa Flood | Operation Northern Arrows

• PM Netanyahu Holds Assessment on the Hostages Issue Israel - Prime Minister 16 Apr 2025
• Summary of the Renewed Operations in the Gaza Strip: Major Achievements of the IDF and ISA Israel Defense Forces 16 Apr 2025
• Israeli troops will remain in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria indefinitely: War minister IRNA 16 Apr 2025 -- Israeli minister in charge of military affairs says the regime's forces will remain in the Gaza Strip, Lebanon, and Syria indefinitely.
• US prepares to arm Israel with 1000s more bombs ahead of 'vigorous expansion' of Gaza war Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- The United States has reportedly approved a new shipment of thousands of powerful munitions to the Israeli regime, further reinforcing its military arsenal as Tel Aviv is said to be readying for "vigorous expansion" of its genocidal war on the Gaza Strip.
• 'Complete humanitarian collapse' imminent in Gaza: Media office Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- The Government Media Office has warned that Gaza is entering a "phase of complete humanitarian collapse" as Israeli forces continue to block aid into the besieged Palestinian territory.
• Gaza death toll from Israel's savagery passes 51,000 mark: Health ministry Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- The Gaza Ministry of Health says the death toll from the US-backed Israeli campaign of genocide since October 2023 has passed the 51,000 mark.
• Women, children killed in 'relentless' Israeli bombing of Gaza Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- Intensified Israeli airstrikes have killed more than 20 people, including women and children, in the Gaza Strip, the besieged territory's civil defense agency says.
• Israel deliberately bombed place where U.S.-Israeli prisoner kept in Gaza: Abu Obeida IRNA 16 Apr 2025 -- Al-Qassam Brigades spokesperson Abu Obaida announced that they have lost contact with the team guarding U.S.-Israeli soldier Edan Alexander in Gaza after "direct Israeli bombardment" targeted their location.
• Gaza faces deepening crisis as aid stocks dwindle UN News 16 Apr 2025 -- The United Nations on Wednesday warned that escalating hostilities and access constraints in Gaza are exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis, displacing hundreds of thousands and depriving civilians of shelter, food and medicine.
• UN says Israel's new controls could jeopardize Gaza aid deliveries Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- The United Nations has warned that a new Israeli "authorization mechanism" and restrictions on humanitarian aid suppliers would introduce greater control over aid delivery by the regime forces in the besieged Gaza Strip.
• ICC sues Hungary for failing to arrest fugitive Israeli war criminal Netanyahu Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- The International Criminal Court has launched formal proceedings against Hungary after Budapest failed to execute an ICC arrest warrant against Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his official visit to the country earlier this month.
• Gaza has become a "mass grave" for Palestinians and those helping them Doctors Without Borders 16 Apr 2025 -- As Israeli forces resume and expand their military offensive by air, ground and sea on the Gaza Strip, Palestine, forcibly displacing people and deliberately blocking essential aid, Palestinian lives are once again being systematically destroyed, warns Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).
• Doctors Without Borders: Israel has turned Gaza into 'mass grave' Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- Doctors Without Borders has decried Israel for massacring Palestinians in Gaza and humanitarian workers trying to alleviate their suffering.

Other Conflicts

• Beijing, Manila at odds over Google Maps update on South China Sea Radio Free Asia 16 Apr 2025 -- A recent update to Google Maps now prominently displays the label "West Philippine Sea" over waters west of the Philippines, fueling discussion about a longstanding territorial dispute with China, which continues to refer to the area as the South China Sea.
• Scores of Syria Alawites killed as HTS sectarian violence continues Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- The forces of the Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham-led (HTS) administration have killed at least 42 Alawites during the past two weeks, a month after the massacre of approximately 1,700 members of the religious minority in Syria's coastal areas.
• Myanmar insurgent army to withdraw from northern territory amid Chinese pressure Radio Free Asia 16 Apr 2025 -- Amid mounting pressure from Beijing, a powerful rebel army in northern Myanmar is preparing to withdraw from the conflict-hit city of Lashio by April 22, residents in rebel-held territory told Radio Free Asia.
• As Displacement, Sexual Violence Surge in Democratic Republic of Congo, Redoubled Peace Efforts Key to End Decade-Long Conflict, UN Envoy Tells Security Council UN Security Council 16 Apr 2025 -- As eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo remains gripped by violence, mass displacement and grave human rights violations, especially of women and children, the United Nations top official for the Great Lakes region urged the Security Council to support and encourage peace efforts — "messages of hope" — to end the decade-long conflict.
• Security Council urged to support eastern DR Congo peace initiatives UN News 16 Apr 2025 -- Despite numerous regional and international diplomatic initiatives, the security situation remains critical in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Security Council heard on Wednesday.
• UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell briefing to the United Nations Security Council on the humanitarian situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo UNICEF 16 Apr 2025
• The UK calls on all parties to agree an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in DRC: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 16 Apr 2025 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
• Humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate in El Fasher, Sudan UN News 16 Apr 2025 -- Escalating violence and deteriorating humanitarian conditions in and around El Fasher in Sudan continue to be of grave concern, the United Nations said on Wednesday.
• South Sudan on the brink as peace deal falters, UN warns UN News 16 Apr 2025 -- South Sudan stands at a dangerous crossroads as rising political tensions threaten to derail a fragile peace deal, amid growing fears of renewed conflict in the world's youngest nation, already buckling under a deepening humanitarian crisis.
• 'All Efforts Focused on Preventing Relapse into Widespread Conflict' in South Sudan, United Nations Mission Head Tells Security Council UN Security Council 16 Apr 2025 -- A sharp deterioration in South Sudan's political and security situation threatens to undermine the peace gains achieved so far and plunge the country back into war, the Head of the UN Mission warned the Security Council today, stressing the need for all parties to cease hostilities and honour the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement.
• The UK is deeply concerned at recent political tensions and increased fighting across South Sudan: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 16 Apr 2025 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on South Sudan.
• OCHA warns Security Council that political crisis could trigger "humanitarian nightmare" in South Sudan UNOCHA 16 Apr 2025 -- Briefing to the Security Council on the humanitarian situation in South Sudan by Edem Wosornu, Director, Operations and Advocacy for OCHA, on behalf of Tom Fletcher, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator
• Haiti crisis could impact regional and global stability UN News 16 Apr 2025 -- The situation in Haiti represents "one of the most complex and urgent crises in the world with implications for reginal and global stability," said Amy Pope, Director General of International Organisation for Migration (IOM), speaking to journalists in New York on Wednesday.
• Joint Statement from the United Kingdom and France on Haiti UK FCDO 16 Apr 2025
• No: 84, 16 April 2025, Regarding the "Maritime Spatial Plan" Declared by Greece Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Apr 2025

News Reports

• Countries finalize historic pandemic agreement after three years of negotiations UN News 16 Apr 2025 -- In the early hours of Wednesday morning in Geneva, countries finalized a draft global agreement aimed at improving how the world prepares for and responds to pandemics, marking a historic step that will be submitted to the World Health Assembly in May for adoption.
• WHO Member States conclude negotiations and make significant progress on draft pandemic agreement WHO 16 Apr 2025 -- After more than three years of intensive negotiations, WHO Member States took a major step forward in efforts to make the world safer from pandemics, by forging a draft agreement for consideration at the upcoming World Health Assembly in May. The proposal aims to strengthen global collaboration on prevention, preparedness and response to future pandemic threats.
• Government proposes more extensive rights for intelligence authorities to disclose criminal information Finnish Government 16 Apr 2025 -- The Government proposes that the Finnish Security and Intelligence Service and the military intelligence authorities be allowed to disclose information on criminal offences to other authorities more extensively than before. The proposal would improve national security. The Government submitted the proposal to Parliament on 16 April.
• DICT cracks down on election troll armies, fake news online Philippine News Agency 16 Apr 2025 -- The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has started a crackdown against fake news and organized 'troll armies' on social media to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
• Meeting on development of space activities President of Russia 16 Apr 2025 -- The President held a meeting on the development of space activities at Bauman Moscow State Technical University.
• Putin Announces Russia's Ambitious Plans to Explore Deep Space Sputnik 16 Apr 2025 -- Russia is planning to explore deep space, including the Moon and Mars, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday.
• Joint likeminded statement on the occasion of the anniversary of Alexei Navalny's death on 16 February 2025 Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark 16 Apr 2025 -- On the anniversary of Alexei Navalny's death, which followed years of persecution by the Kremlin, we again extend our condolences to his family.
• Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks at the 44th meeting of the Foreign Ministry's Council of Heads of Constituent Entities of the Russian Federation, Moscow, April 16, 2025 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Apr 2025
• Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa Ronald Lamola Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Apr 2025
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian's Regular Press Conference on April 16, 2025 PRC MofA 16 Apr 2025
• US weaponizes tariffs with utter irrationality: MOFCOM on White House's claim of 245% tariffs on Chinese products Global Times 16 Apr 2025 -- When asked to comment on a fact sheet published on the White House website stating "China now faces tariffs of up to 245 percent on imports to the US as a result of its retaliatory actions" and whether this signifies another US tariff hike on Chinese goods, a spokesperson for China's Ministry of Commerce said on Wednesday that China has noticed that some of its exports to the US are now subject to cumulative tariffs of up to 245 percent under various pretexts.
• Chinese FM responds to White House claims that China faces up to 245% tariffs on imports to US and 'ball is in China's court' Global Times 16 Apr 2025 -- In response to an inquiry about the White House's statement claiming China now faces up to a 245 percent tariff on imports to the US as a result of its retaliatory actions, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian responded on Wednesday that "you can ask the US side for the specific tax rate figures."
• Chinese FM responds to US' 'ball in China's court' remarks, urging US to stop extreme pressure, threatening and blackmailing Global Times 16 Apr 2025 -- In response to a question regarding White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt's remark that "The ball is in China's court: China needs to make a deal with us, we don't have to make a deal with them," which she claimed that US President Donald Trump had given her that statement directly to use, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Wednesday that the US side initiated the tariff war, and China has taken the necessary countermeasures to safeguard its own legitimate rights and interests and international fairness and justice, which are completely reasonable and lawful.
• Chinese FM responds to reports of order to suspend acceptance of Boeing aircraft deliveries Global Times 16 Apr 2025 -- In response to a question about reports that China has asked domestic airlines to suspend the acceptance of Boeing aircraft deliveries and halt the purchase of aircraft-related parts and equipment from American companies, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Wednesday that he was unaware of the situation and suggested directing the inquiry to the relevant Chinese authorities.
• China says 'not afraid to fight' trade war with US Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- China has warned that it is "not afraid" to fight a trade war with the United States, reiterating calls for dialogue after US President Donald Trump said Beijing must take the initiative to come to the negotiating table.
• China Sets Terms for US Trade Talks: Respect, Consistency, and a Designated Representative Sputnik 16 Apr 2025 -- Beijing is willing to engage in trade talks with the United States, provided that US President Donald Trump and his cabinet members demonstrate greater respect for China and avoid making derogatory comments amid an ongoing trade war between the two biggest economies, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday.
• US Playing Hardball: Restrict China's Access in Exchange for Fewer Tariffs on Allies Sputnik 16 Apr 2025 -- During negotiations with more than 70 countries, the US administration plans to secure commitments from trade partners to economically isolate China in exchange for lower tariffs imposed by the White House, The Wall Street Journal newspaper reported.
• Xi Jinping Meets with King of Malaysia His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim PRC MofA 16 Apr 2025 -- On the morning of April 16, 2025 local time, King of Malaysia His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim met with President of China Xi Jinping at the National Palace of Malaysia.
• China-Malaysia ties ushering in new golden era, Xi says Global Times 16 Apr 2025 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Wednesday that China is ready to work with the Malaysian side to build a high-level strategic China-Malaysia community with a shared future, so as to usher in new "Golden 50 Years" for bilateral ties, according to the Xinhua News Agency.
• Xi urges joint efforts to build high-level strategic China-Malaysia community with shared future PRC MND 16 Apr 2025 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said Wednesday that China is ready to work with the Malaysian side to build a high-level strategic China-Malaysia community with a shared future, so as to usher in new "Golden 50 Years" for bilateral ties.
• President Xi Jinping Holds Talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim PRC MofA 16 Apr 2025 -- On the afternoon of April 16, President Xi Jinping held talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at Seri Perdana, the prime minister's residence, in Putrajaya.
• China says stands with Malaysia, region in face of unilateralism Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- President Xi Jinping has said China stands united with Malaysia and other Asian countries against geopolitical confrontation, protectionism, and unilateralism, which endanger the global order.
• General Secretary and President Xi Jinping General Secretary of the CPV Central Committee To Lam and Vietnamese President Luong Cuong Jointly Meet Representatives Attending Chinese and Vietnamese People's Friendship Meeting PRC MofA 16 Apr 2025 -- On the morning of April 15, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and President Xi Jinping, together with General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV) To Lam and President of Viet Nam Luong Cuong, met with representatives attending the Chinese and Vietnamese People's Friendship Meeting at the Hanoi International Convention Center.
• Private Investigator Sentenced to Prison for Interstate Stalking and Harassment of Chinese Nationals on Behalf of the People's Republic of China US Dept. of Justice 16 Apr 2025 -- Today, in federal court in Brooklyn, New York, Michael McMahon, 57, of Mahwah, New Jersey, was sentenced to 18 months in prison and ordered to pay an $11,000 fine for acting as an illegal agent of the government of the People's Republic of China (PRC) and interstate stalking and conspiracy to commit the same, for his participation in a scheme to coerce repatriation of a U.S. resident to the PRC as part of its international repatriation effort known as "Operation Fox Hunt."
• DPP asks party officials, staff to report China trips amid espionage probes CNA 16 Apr 2025 -- President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said Wednesday that Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) officials and staff members will be required to report any planned travel to China in the future, amid reports of Chinese spies within his ruling party.
• 62 military personnel hold Chinese 'residence permit': Minister CNA 16 Apr 2025 -- Sixty-two active-duty military officers and soldiers currently hold a residence permit issued by the Chinese government and cannot do jobs related to collecting intelligence and confidential data, Defense Minister Wellington Koo (顧立雄) said Wednesday.
• U.S. congressional group visits Taiwan, to meet with President Lai CNA 16 Apr 2025 -- A delegation led by U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts will meet with President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) and other top government officials to discuss regional security, trade and investment and other issues during their visit to Taiwan from Wednesday to April 19.
• Taiwan, U.S. expect new round of tariff talks soon: Executive Yuan CNA 16 Apr 2025 -- Taiwan and the U.S. both expect to hold a second round of tariff negotiations in the near future following a first discussion on April 11, an Executive Yuan official said on Wednesday.
• Taiwan rebuts China's criticism of deregistration rule CNA 16 Apr 2025 -- Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) on Wednesday rejected Beijing's claim that requiring Chinese spouses to submit proof of renouncing their Chinese household registration was "escalating cross-strait tensions."
• Taiwan to fight Chinese origin fraud aimed at tariff evasion: MOEA CNA 16 Apr 2025 -- The government is hoping to thwart Chinese circumvention of American tariffs by taking measures to prevent Chinese goods from using Taiwan for false origin claims, Economic Affairs Minister Kuo Jyh-huei (郭智輝) said Wednesday.
• MOFA protests labeling of Taiwan in China-Vietnam joint statement CNA 16 Apr 2025 -- Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) on Wednesday condemned a joint statement issued by China and Vietnam that asserted Taiwan is a part of China.
• DPP Lai's 'global north' claim a fabricated concept serving anti-China and decoupling agenda, doomed to fail: spokesperson Global Times 16 Apr 2025 -- Slamming Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) leader Lai Ching-te's recent claim that so-called "global north democratic countries" are eager to attract outstanding Taiwan businesses, and that investment of the island should "depart from the Chinese economy for the global north," as well as that Taiwan should take advantage of every geopolitical and economic change to promote the right direction for its development, Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said on Wednesday that the so-called "global north" is a fabricated concept by the DPP authorities led by Lai Ching-te to justify its anti-China and decoupling agenda.
• US hype of 'hellscape' exposes malicious intent of anti-China forces to destroy Taiwan island for own political gain: spokesperson Global Times 16 Apr 2025 -- In response to remarks made by Samuel Paparo, commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command during a Congressional hearing claiming that the US should build a "hellscape" of autonomous systems in the Taiwan Straits to deter the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said at a regular press conference on Wednesday that some individuals in the US continue to hype up and exaggerate the so-called "hellscape," which starkly reveals the malicious intent of anti-China forces in the US to destroy Taiwan island for their own political gain.
• Taiwan Affairs Office condemns Lai: 'turning the other cheek' as US slaps high tariffs on Taiwan Global Times 16 Apr 2025 -- In response to a question saying Lai Ching-te's offering of zero tariffs against the US and companies in the island will raise their US investments, rather than imposing reciprocal measures, Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said on Wednesday that in order to pursue "independence," the Lai Ching-te authorities have actively sold off Taiwan's core advantageous industries, only to be met with the US imposition of high tariffs on the island. This has shattered the illusion of the fabricated concept of "US-Taiwan relationship," turning Taiwan from a "pawn" into a "discarded piece."
• Taiwan Affairs Office's reporting column receives over 3,000 tip-offs on 'Taiwan independence' accomplices: spokesperson Global Times 16 Apr 2025 -- The launch of an online column on the official website of Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council for reporting malicious acts of "Taiwan independence" henchmen and accomplices persecuting Taiwan compatriots is grounded in solid legal principles and sufficient legal justification, and the column has received over 3,000 tip-off emails to date with detailed content, Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said on Wednesday, responding to claims by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities that the mainland has "no jurisdiction" over the island of Taiwan.
• It is only a matter of time before Taiwan's semiconductor industry is handed over by 'professional traitor of Taiwan' Lai Ching-te: spokesperson Global Times 16 Apr 2025 -- In response to media query on concerns on the Taiwan island over the US hollowing out its semiconductor industry are growing, Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said that the concerns of Taiwan's industry are not groundless. TSMC has long become a political pledge of the DPP authorities' attempts to seek "Taiwan independence" by leaning on the US. It is only a matter of time before Taiwan's semiconductor industry is handed over by Lai Ching-te, who is a "professional traitor of Taiwan."
• Online platform receives over 3,000 reports of "Taiwan independence" activities People's Daily 16 Apr 2025 -- The online platform launched late last month for the public to report vile acts of "Taiwan independence" has received more than 3,000 relevant reports so far, a Chinese mainland spokesperson said on Wednesday.
• Defense spokesperson warns of "unbearable price" for interfering in China's internal affairs PRC MND 16 Apr 2025 -- A Chinese defense spokesperson on Wednesday warned that those who persist in playing the "Taiwan card" to interfere in China's internal affairs, or even engage in military provocations, will inevitably pay an "unbearable price."
• Chinese mainland opposes any military ties between U.S. and Taiwan PRC MND 16 Apr 2025 -- The Chinese mainland resolutely opposes any military ties between the United States and Taiwan, a spokesperson said on Wednesday, noting that the Taiwan question is China's internal affair and allows no external interference.
• DPP authorities slammed for bowing to US demands, harming livelihoods in Taiwan PRC MND 16 Apr 2025 -- A mainland spokesperson on Wednesday denounced Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities for bowing to US demands, warning that such actions undermine the island's future and harm the well-being of its people.
• PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 16 Apr 2025
• Iran Says It's Ready To Address US Concerns But Not Negotiate Nuclear Enrichment RFE/RL 16 Apr 2025 -- Tehran is ready to ease US concerns over its nuclear activities but scrapping uranium enrichment is off the table, Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said as the two sides prepare for a second round of talks this weekend over Iran's nuclear program.
• Contradictory positions of U.S. officials show lack of seriousness and good faith: Foreign Ministry spokesperson IRNA 16 Apr 2025 -- Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei strongly reacted to the contradictory statements on Iran's nuclear program by Steve Witkoff, the U.S. President's special representative for the Middle East.
• Government cannot afford to wait for a deal with Washington, says spokesperson IRNA 16 Apr 2025 -- Administration spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani says the administration, understanding the country's economic realities, cannot afford to wait for a potential agreement with the United States.
• Iran warns 'moving the goalposts' could derail Tehran-Washington talks Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei has warned that making fundamental mistakes could disrupt the negotiations between Tehran and Washington.
• US imposes sanctions on Chinese buyers of Iranian oil Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- The United States has imposed sanctions on Chinese importers of Iranian oil despite being involved in talks with the Islamic Republic to sort out differences over its nuclear program.
• Sanctioning a China-Based "Teapot" Refinery to Pressure Iran Further US Dept. of State 16 Apr 2025 -- The United States is today sanctioning Shandong Shengxing Chemical Co., Ltd, a China-based independent "teapot" refinery, for purchasing more than a billion dollars' worth of Iranian crude oil.
• Treasury Increases Pressure on Chinese Importers of Iranian Oil US Treasury 16 Apr 2025 -- Today, the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is designating a China-based independent "teapot" refinery Shandong Shengxing Chemical Co., Ltd. for its role in purchasing more than a billion dollars' worth of Iranian crude oil, including from a front company for Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force (IRGC-QF). OFAC is also imposing additional sanctions on several companies and vessels responsible for facilitating Iranian oil shipments to China as part of Iran's "shadow fleet."
• Foreign minister meets visiting IAEA chief IRNA 16 Apr 2025 -- Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has met with Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Grossi who has traveled to Tehran on an official visit.
• Iran repeats call on IAEA to clarify position on threats made against peaceful nuclear sites Press TV 16 Apr 2025 -- Iran has once again urged the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to adopt a clear and transparent position regarding the threats that have been made by various parties against the country's peaceful nuclear facilities.
• Foreign minister to convey Leader's message to President Putin during an upcoming trip to Moscow IRNA 16 Apr 2025 -- Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi says he will be carrying a message from Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei to Russian President Vladimir Putin during an upcoming trip to Moscow.
• President thanks Zarif; acknowledges 'set of constraints' in former vice-president's exit IRNA 16 Apr 2025 -- President Masoud Pezeshkian has thanked Mohammad-Javad Zarif, his former vice-president for strategic affairs.
• Former FAA Contractor Pleads Guilty to Illegally Acting as an Agent of the Iranian Government US Dept. of Justice 16 Apr 2025 -- Former Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) contractor Abouzar Rahmati, 42, a naturalized U.S. citizen and resident of Great Falls, Virginia, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to act and acting as an agent of the Iranian government in the United States without prior notification to the Attorney General.
• Joint Statement on the 15th Round of Pakistan-Russia Consultative Group on Strategic Stability Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Apr 2025 -- The 15th round of Pakistan-Russia Consultative Group on Strategic Stability was held in Islamabad on 16 April 2025. Additional Foreign Secretary (Arms Control & Disarmament), Tahir Andrabi and Russian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, S.A. Ryabkov, led the respective delegations.
• Joint Press Release: Fifth Round of Dialogue on Maritime Cooperation Between Pakistan and China Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Apr 2025 -- On April 15, the Fifth Round of the Pakistan-China Dialogue on Maritime Cooperation was held in Beijing. The dialogue was co-chaired by Additional Secretary (Asia-Pacific) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, Imran Ahmed Siddiqui, and Director General of the Department of Boundary and Ocean Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China, Hong Liang.
• US Lifts Sanctions Against Member Of Orban's Cabinet RFE/RL 16 Apr 2025 -- The United States on April 15 lifted sanctions imposed in January on the head of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's cabinet, Antal Rogan, over accusations of corruption and cronyism.
• Vietnam to slash provinces as top leader To Lam seeks to consolidate power Radio Free Asia 16 Apr 2025 -- Vietnam's ruling Communist Party approved plans to nearly halve the number of provinces, a crucial step toward enabling top leader To Lam, who faces a party congress in January, to stay in power.
• The Doctor Is In: Serbia's Vucic Taps Endocrinologist To Treat Political Pressure RFE/RL 16 Apr 2025 -- Djuro Macut became the most searched name in Serbia on April 6 after President Aleksandar Vucic nominated him for the position of prime minister.
• Saudi Arabia Backs Jordan's Actions to Preserve National Security SPA 16 Apr 2025 -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's praise of the measures taken by the security authorities in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan to foil plots that aimed to undermine Jordan's security and incite chaos.